Far East Brokers Recalls Pineapple Corer & Slicers Due to Laceration Hazard

What was recalled

If you own a kitchen tool designed to make preparing tropical fruit a bit easier, it is important to pause and check your drawer. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall for the Fabulous Home brand Pineapple Corer & Slicer. This specific product was manufactured and distributed by Far East Brokers, who are now asking consumers to take immediate action regarding this item. The recall, which was officially announced on May 23, 2019, targets a very particular type of kitchen gadget that combines two functions into one handheld device: coring and slicing. While the concept sounds convenient for anyone who enjoys fresh pineapple, the structural integrity of the metal component within the tool has proven to be unreliable under normal use.

To help you identify whether your specific unit is part of this recall, it is helpful to understand exactly what the product looks like and how it functions. The recalled Pineapple Corer & Slicer is primarily constructed from white plastic, which gives it a clean, modern appearance typical of many modern kitchen utensils. However, the defining feature that sets it apart—and also creates the hazard—is its black top section. Attached to this black handle is a long, sharp metal blade. The design mimics the mechanical action of a corkscrew; you are meant to twist the handle into the center of a pineapple while pushing down, allowing the spiral blade to cut through the flesh and core simultaneously. It is a tool that relies heavily on the strength of the connection between the plastic body and that central metal blade.

While the recall notice does not specify the exact number of units sold or the precise dates during which they were available in stores, it confirms that these items were sold under the "Fabulous Home" brand name. The lack of specific model numbers in the general description suggests that this was likely a single-line product run rather than a complex series of variations. If you purchased this item from a retailer that carries home goods or kitchenware, there is a chance it could be the one in question. The key identifiers remain the brand name "Fabulous Home," the white plastic body with a black top, and the presence of the detachable metal coring blade. Because the hazard involves the blade coming loose, visual inspection of this specific component is your first step in determining if your tool is part of this safety notice.

Understanding what was recalled is only the beginning. The core issue here is not just that the product exists, but that its design has failed to contain the sharp metal edge within the handle during use. Far East Brokers has reported one incident where the metal blade became completely detached from the plastic body. While no injuries have been reported in connection with this specific recall, the potential for a laceration is significant given the nature of the tool and its intended contact with human hands. If your pineapple corer matches the description above, it falls under the scope of this safety alert.

The hazard, explained

When you use a pineapple corer and slicer, you are relying on the structural integrity of a sharp metal blade to do heavy lifting within a dense, fibrous fruit. The specific issue with this recall centers on the connection between that metal blade and the rest of the tool’s body. In normal operation, the device functions somewhat like a corkscrew; you twist it into the pineapple, and the blade cuts through the tough flesh to create a hollow core while slicing the surrounding rings. This twisting motion generates significant torque and lateral stress on the point where the metal blade is attached to the plastic or handle component.

The defect identified by Far East Brokers involves the failure of this attachment point. Under the pressure of coring a tough pineapple, the metal blade can detach from the main body of the slicer. This is not merely a mechanical inconvenience; it transforms the tool from a helpful kitchen aid into an uncontrolled sharp object. When the blade separates, it is no longer guided by the handle or the user’s grip. Instead, it may remain lodged in the fruit, fall unpredictably onto a counter, or, most dangerously, become trapped between your hand and the pineapple as you continue to apply pressure.

The primary risk here is laceration, which is a cut to the skin that can range from superficial to deep enough to require medical attention. Because the blade is designed to be sharp enough to slice through fibrous pineapple tissue easily, it retains its cutting edge even when detached. If your hand slips or if you instinctively reach for the fruit while the blade is still embedded but disconnected from the tool, you are at high risk of a serious cut. The fingers and thumbs are particularly vulnerable because they are closest to the point of action.

While Far East Brokers has currently received only one report of the blade becoming detached and no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for harm is real and immediate. Lacerations from kitchen tools often occur because users assume the tool will remain intact under load. When that assumption fails, the sharp edge is suddenly exposed without the protective context of the handle. This sudden change in control dynamics can lead to accidental contact with the blade, resulting in bleeding, pain, and potential infection if the wound is not cleaned and treated properly. Understanding this mechanism highlights why stopping use immediately is the only safe course of action.

Who is most at risk

The primary group at risk for injury from this recall are individuals who actively use kitchen tools to prepare fresh fruit, specifically those who own or have purchased the Fabulous Home Pineapple Corer & Slicer. Because the product functions mechanically—requiring a twisting motion similar to that of a corkscrew—the user must apply significant downward pressure and rotational force to core and slice the pineapple. This physical demand is central to understanding the risk profile, as the hazard arises precisely when the tool is under stress during normal operation.

While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for laceration exists for any user who handles this specific model. However, certain demographics may face heightened vulnerability due to the nature of the defect and the physical requirements of the task. The recalled unit features a metal blade that can detach from the plastic body. For users with less hand strength or dexterity, such as some elderly individuals or those with arthritis, maintaining a firm, stable grip on the tool while applying the necessary twisting force can be challenging. If the blade detaches unexpectedly during this struggle, the user’s hands are often in direct contact with the cutting edge or the point of failure, increasing the likelihood of a cut to the fingers or palm.

Additionally, households with children present a secondary layer of risk, not necessarily because children are the primary operators of heavy-duty corers, but due to the potential for improper storage or handling. If the product is left accessible after use, or if a caregiver attempts to demonstrate its use in an uncontrolled environment, the exposed metal blade poses a sharp hazard. Although the recall notes that the device works like a corkscrew, the rigid plastic handle may not provide enough tactile feedback to warn a user of impending structural failure. Therefore, anyone who has attempted to core a particularly dense or large pineapple is at greater risk, as harder fruits require more force, which directly correlates to the stress placed on the blade attachment point.

It is also important to note that the risk extends beyond just the initial moment of use. If the blade has already become loose or partially detached, subsequent handling for cleaning or storage becomes dangerous. The recall indicates that Far East Brokers has received one report of the metal blade becoming detached. This confirms that the failure mode is real and can occur during standard use. Consequently, any person who possesses this white corer with a black top should consider themselves potentially at risk until they verify the integrity of the blade or dispose of the item according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

If you own a pineapple corer and slicer, identifying whether your specific unit is part of this recall requires a careful look at both its physical appearance and the branding on the packaging or product itself. Because kitchen gadgets can look similar across different manufacturers, it is important to verify the exact brand and design features before taking any action. The recall issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) specifically targets products sold under the Fabulous Home brand. If your tool carries a different brand name, such as OXO, Zyliss, or another common kitchen supplier, it is not included in this specific recall notice. Therefore, the first and most critical step is to locate the logo or brand name printed on the handle or the packaging.

The recalled item has a very distinct visual profile that should help you confirm its identity. The device is primarily constructed from plastic, giving it a lightweight feel compared to all-metal corers. The body of the corer is white, which serves as the main structural component. However, the top section—the part you grip and twist—is black. This two-tone color scheme is a key identifier. Additionally, while the majority of the tool is plastic, it features a metal blade at the bottom designed to cut through the pineapple. It is essential to verify that the blade is indeed metal, as this is the component involved in the hazard. If your slicer has a fully plastic blade or a different color combination, such as all-black or red accents, it likely falls outside the scope of this specific recall.

In terms of functionality and form, the recalled pineapple corer operates much like a traditional cork screw. You insert the metal tip into the center of the fruit and twist to core and slice simultaneously. This mechanical action is central to how the product works and why the detachment of the blade is dangerous. When inspecting your item, look for this specific cork-screw style mechanism. The recall does not specify a model number or serial number in the provided facts, so you must rely on the brand name "Fabulous Home" and the physical description: white plastic body, black top, and a metal cutting blade.

If you are unsure whether you still have the original packaging, check the product itself for any molded text. If you have discarded the box, look closely at the handle or the side of the white plastic body for embossed or printed branding. The recall was announced on May 23, 2019, so if you purchased this item recently from retailers like Far East Brokers & Consultants, it is highly likely to be the recalled version. To be absolutely certain, you can visit the company’s website at https://fareastbrokers.com/ and navigate to “Product Recalls” then “Pineapple Corer & Slicer” to compare photos of your item against the official recall images. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and stop using the device immediately until you have confirmed its status through direct contact with the manufacturer.

What to do — step by step

If you own a Fabulous Home brand Pineapple Corer & Slicer, the most critical action you can take right now is to stop using the device immediately. This is not a suggestion; it is a necessary safety measure. The recall notice from Far East Brokers highlights that the metal blade within the unit can detach during normal use. Since this tool operates much like a corkscrew, twisting it into a pineapple places significant torque and pressure on the connection between the plastic body and the metal blade. If that bond fails while your hand is gripping the handle or your fingers are near the cutting surface, the result could be a serious laceration. Even though Far East Brokers has only received one report of detachment so far and no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for harm is real enough that continued use is not worth the risk. Please put the device away in a drawer or box where it cannot be accidentally grabbed by you or any other member of your household.

Once the item is safely out of circulation, your next step is to reach out to Far East Brokers & Consultants to initiate the remedy process. The company has committed to providing a full refund for this product, which is a generous and consumer-friendly resolution. To get started, you can contact them by phone at 800-619-0487. Their customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time. When you call, have your product ready nearby so you can provide any identifying information they might request. If you prefer written communication or find it easier to document the interaction, you may also email them directly at customerservice@fareastbrokers.com. Whether you choose phone or email, be sure to mention that you are contacting them regarding the Pineapple Corer & Slicer recall so they can process your case efficiently.

Alternatively, if you prefer to handle this online, Far East Brokers has set up a dedicated section on their website for this specific issue. Navigate to https://fareastbrokers.com/ and look for the “Product Recalls” link. From there, select “Pineapple Corer & Slicer” to find detailed instructions and the necessary forms to claim your refund. This online portal is likely the most convenient option if you want to complete the process at your own pace without waiting on hold. It allows you to review all the information clearly before submitting your request. Remember that the goal here is simply to get your money back for a product that can no longer be used safely. There is no need to repair the slicer, as the structural integrity of the blade attachment is the core issue. Do not attempt to fix the blade yourself, as this will not resolve the underlying safety defect and could still pose a danger.

As you go through these steps, keep in mind that you are likely not alone in having this product. Many households purchased these slicers during the same sales period. It is helpful to check with family members or roommates who might have received one as a gift or bought it separately. If they do have it, encourage them to stop using it and contact Far East Brokers as well. The refund process is designed to be straightforward, but it requires your active participation to ensure the item is removed from use. By following these steps—stopping use, contacting the manufacturer, and securing your refund—you are protecting yourself and others from potential injury while resolving the inconvenience of the recall.

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

What can happen if you ignore it

It is entirely understandable why you might be tempted to keep using the recalled Fabulous Home Pineapple Corer & Slicer. Kitchen gadgets are often purchased with good intentions, and if yours has been sitting in a drawer or on a counter for a while without issue, it can feel safe to simply ignore the recall notice. After all, the CPSC report notes that there have been no injuries reported so far. However, relying on past luck as a predictor of future safety is a risky strategy, especially when dealing with sharp metal components in a high-pressure environment like food preparation.

The core danger here is mechanical failure under load. This tool functions much like a corkscrew, requiring you to twist it firmly into the tough, fibrous flesh of a pineapple. This action places significant torque and lateral stress on the connection between the plastic handle assembly and the metal blade. The recall was issued because that specific connection point has proven unreliable. If you continue to use the device, you are essentially gambling that the metal blade will remain securely attached every single time you twist it into a fruit. When that bond fails while your hand is applying pressure, the result is not merely a broken tool; it is an uncontrolled release of sharp metal.

A laceration hazard in this context is particularly concerning because of the mechanics of the injury. When the blade detaches unexpectedly during use, it does not simply fall away harmlessly. The momentum from your twisting motion can cause the loose blade to slip toward your fingers, palm, or wrist. Pineapple corers are designed to cut through dense material, meaning their edges are sharp enough to slice through skin with minimal resistance. A detached blade can cause deep cuts that may require medical attention, stitches, or even surgical intervention if nerves or tendons are affected. Unlike a minor burn from hot steam, which often has an immediate warning sign, a mechanical detachment can happen in a split second without any prior warning.

Furthermore, ignoring the recall keeps you in the dark about the extent of the problem. While only one incident has been reported to Far East Brokers, that single report confirms that the defect is real and operational. By continuing to use the product, you are not only risking personal injury but also potentially contributing to a pattern of failures that could lead to more severe incidents if the product were ever re-released or sold to others without proper warning. The safest path is to recognize that the risk is no longer theoretical—it has already manifested in the form of detached blades. Stopping use immediately eliminates the possibility of being the next person to experience a preventable injury.

There is also the frustration factor to consider. A broken kitchen gadget is annoying, but a broken gadget that injures you turns a simple task like preparing breakfast into a medical emergency. The hassle of contacting Far East Brokers for a refund is minimal compared to the potential physical and financial costs of treating a laceration. By acting now, you protect your health and ensure that you do not lose money on a product that was fundamentally unsafe by design.

Staying safe: broader tips

Kitchen gadgets are designed to make our lives easier and more enjoyable, but they often involve sharp edges, moving parts, or high-speed mechanisms that require a healthy respect for safety. When dealing with tools like corers, slicers, peelers, or mandolines, the primary rule is to never assume a tool is foolproof because of its price or brand name. Even inexpensive plastic handles can crack, and even premium metal blades can dull or loosen over time. The most effective way to stay safe is to treat every sharp kitchen tool with deliberate care. Always ensure your hands are dry before handling any device, as water acts as a lubricant that can cause slips, leading to fingers sliding directly into cutting edges. Furthermore, never attempt to force a tool through a product that is too hard or too large for its design; if you meet significant resistance, stop and reassess your approach rather than applying excessive pressure that could break the mechanism.

Maintenance is just as critical as usage when it comes to preventing accidents. Regularly inspect your kitchen tools for signs of wear and tear. Look for loose screws, cracked handles, or blades that wobble in their housing. If a tool feels unstable or makes unusual noises during use, discontinue it immediately. Do not try to repair complex mechanical components yourself unless you are qualified to do so; improper repairs can create new hazards that are worse than the original defect. Store sharp tools properly, either in protective sheaths or in dedicated drawers with dividers, to prevent accidental cuts when reaching for them and to protect the blades from becoming damaged by being tossed loosely into a drawer.

Beyond individual tool maintenance, staying informed about product safety is a vital part of household responsibility. Manufacturers may identify defects after a product has been sold, which is why periodic checks for recalls are essential. You can subscribe to email alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or visit their website regularly to see if any items in your home have been recalled. This simple habit can prevent potential injuries before they occur. Additionally, consider keeping a mental or physical inventory of high-risk items in your home, such as ladders, power tools, and sharp kitchen appliances, so you know exactly what you own and when it was purchased. If you ever find yourself unsure about the safety of a specific item, err on the side of caution. It is always better to replace a questionable tool than to risk an injury that could have been easily avoided through vigilance and proper care.

• Keep hands dry: Moisture reduces grip, increasing the chance of slipping onto a blade.
• Inspect regularly: Check for loose parts, cracks, or dull blades before each use.
• Check for recalls: Visit CPSC.gov periodically to ensure your products are still deemed safe.
• Store safely: Use protective covers or dedicated slots to prevent accidental contact with sharp edges.